If you're craving a tangy, creamy dessert that's incredibly easy to make, this No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake in a jar is the perfect recipe for you! This delicious treat combines the fresh zestiness of key limes with a smooth, cheesecake filling, all layered on top of a buttery graham cracker crust. The best part? No oven is needed, making it ideal for hot summer days or when you need a quick and impressive dessert. Read on to discover everything you need to know to make these delightful jars at home!

What is a No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake?
A no-bake key lime cheesecake is a dessert that features all the flavors of a traditional cheesecake but skips the baking process. This creamy, zesty dessert is made with key lime juice, cream cheese, and a graham cracker crust, but instead of being baked in a cake pan, it's served in individual jars. These single-serving jars are perfect for portion control, easy to transport, and make a stunning presentation for any occasion.
Ingredients List for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake
Here's a breakdown of the ingredients you'll need to create these heavenly no-bake cheesecakes:
For the Graham Cracker Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs (about 8-10 graham crackers, crushed)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
For the Key Lime Cheesecake Filling:
- 8 oz (1 block) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup key lime juice (fresh or bottled)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest (for extra tanginess)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream (for added fluffiness)
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
For the Topping (Optional):
- Whipped cream
- Extra lime zest
- Thin slices of key lime or lime wedges
Substitutions and Variations
Don’t have all the ingredients or want to customize your dessert? Here are some simple substitutions and variations:
- Key Lime Juice Substitute: If you can’t find key lime juice, regular lime juice works well too. The flavor will be slightly less tangy but still delicious.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free graham crackers or crushed almonds instead of regular graham crackers for the crust.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy whipping cream.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk Alternative: Substitute sweetened condensed milk with coconut condensed milk for a tropical twist.
- Add a Fruit Layer: Add a layer of crushed berries or mango puree between the crust and the cheesecake filling for an extra burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these steps to create your No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars:
- Prepare the Graham Cracker Crust:
- Crush the graham crackers into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a zip-top bag and rolling over with a rolling pin.
- In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and sugar until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Divide the crust mixture evenly among the jars and press it down firmly to form a base layer.
- Make the Cheesecake Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla extract. Mix well until fully combined and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to make the filling extra fluffy.
- Assemble the Cheesecake Jars:
- Spoon or pipe the cheesecake filling over the graham cracker crust in each jar. Smooth the top with a spoon or small spatula.
- For an extra touch, add a small layer of whipped cream on top of the cheesecake filling.
- Chill:
- Cover the jars with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the cheesecake sets.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Just before serving, add a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of lime zest, and a thin slice of lime for decoration.
How to Make No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Create the Crust: Start with the graham cracker base by crushing graham crackers and mixing them with melted butter and sugar. Press the mixture into the jars and let it chill while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling: Mix cream cheese, condensed milk, key lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla. Whip the heavy cream separately and fold it in for a light, airy texture.
- Layer the Filling: Spoon the key lime cheesecake mixture over the crust and smooth it out.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for 2-4 hours, then add toppings and serve chilled.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Chill Time: These cheesecakes need time to firm up in the fridge. Don’t skip the chill time or you’ll end up with a soupy dessert.
- Not Softening the Cream Cheese: If the cream cheese isn’t soft, it won’t blend smoothly and can lead to a lumpy filling.
- Over-Whipping the Cream: Whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks, but don’t overdo it, or it can turn grainy and affect the texture of the cheesecake.
- Too Much Lime Juice: Adding too much lime juice can make the filling too liquid. Stick to the recipe measurements for the best consistency.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Serving in jars not only makes this dessert portable and cute but also makes portion control easy. Here are some additional tips:
- Use Small Mason Jars: Mason jars or other clear jars let the layers show beautifully, enhancing the visual appeal.
- Decorate with Citrus: Garnish with a lime slice or a sprinkle of zest for a pop of color.
- Add a Twine Bow: For special occasions, wrap a little twine or ribbon around the jar to add a decorative touch.
How to Serve No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
Serve these cheesecake jars straight out of the fridge, chilled, and creamy. They’re perfect for outdoor picnics, summer barbecues, or as an elegant dessert at dinner parties.
- Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a light, airy layer that balances the tangy key lime flavor.
- Add Lime Garnish: Place a thin slice of lime or a sprinkle of zest on top to give it that extra visual appeal.
- Pair with Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries on the side make a beautiful and complementary addition.
Presentation Ideas for No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars
For a visually stunning presentation, consider the following ideas:
- Clear Glass Layers: Use clear jars so you can see the layers of graham crust and creamy filling.
- Mini Dessert Spoons: Add mini dessert spoons attached with ribbon or twine for a classy look.
- Individual Portions for Parties: These jars make great single-serve portions for gatherings, adding a unique touch to dessert tables.
No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake Recipe Tips
- Use Fresh Key Lime Juice: Fresh key lime juice offers a more vibrant flavor than bottled. If you can, take the time to squeeze fresh key limes.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the filling before assembling to adjust sweetness. Add more powdered sugar if you prefer a sweeter dessert.
- Make Ahead: These jars can be made a day in advance. Just cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of citrus?
A: Yes, you can use lemon or regular lime juice instead of key lime, though the flavor will be slightly different.
Q: How long can I store these cheesecake jars?
A: These cheesecake jars can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just keep them covered to prevent them from drying out.
Q: Can I freeze these cheesecake jars?
A: Yes, you can freeze them without the whipped cream topping. Let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
Q: Do I have to use jars?
A: Not at all! You can use any small container, or even create a larger version in a pie dish if you prefer.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Key Lime Cheesecake in a jar is a simple yet impressive dessert that’s sure to please any crowd. With its refreshing lime flavor and creamy, no-bake texture, it’s the perfect treat for warm weather or any occasion. Customize it to suit your taste, make it ahead of time, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Try this recipe today, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
PrintNo-bake Key Lime Cheesecake Jars Recipe
These no-bake Key lime cheesecake jars are a refreshing, easy-to-make dessert. With a tangy lime filling and a buttery graham cracker crust, they’re the ideal treat for a warm day or when you need a quick, delicious dessert fix. The individual jars make them perfect for gatherings or portion-controlled servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 jars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Graham Cracker Crust: graham crackers, melted butter, sugar
- Cheesecake Filling: cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, key lime juice, key lime zest, vanilla extract
- Topping: whipped cream, lime zest for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: Crush graham crackers and combine with melted butter and sugar. Divide evenly into small jars and press down to form the crust.
- Make the Filling: Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add sweetened condensed milk, lime juice, zest, and vanilla extract; mix until creamy.
- Assemble: Spoon the filling over the crust in each jar, smoothing the tops.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Garnish with whipped cream and extra lime zest before serving.
Notes
- Substitute regular limes if Key limes aren’t available.
- Jars can be refrigerated for up to 3 days for a make-ahead dessert.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 jar
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 210mg
Leave a Reply